Pumpkin Soup (Soupe Joumou)

Haitian pumpkin soup called soupe Joumou pronounced (joo-moo) or sometimes called Sunday soup signifies freedom to the Haitian people. Every Haitian will eat this soup on Independence day because when Haiti was a French colony, the slaves were forbidden to eat pumpkin soup. They were told they did not have a sophisticated enough palate for such pleasure. Can you imagine? Needless to say here is a recipe that is treasured throughout the country. I made mine vegetarian and added a can of coconut milk as I served this still hearty soup as a starter for our International Cuisine meal. The soup is beautiful served up inside a pumpkin. Delicious, enjoy!